44 Hobby havens Andrew Thorpe, Managing Director of Craft4Crafters Ltd talks to Craft Focus about organising the oh-so popular events, Stitching 4 All and Craft4Crafters Tell us a little bit about the company. Where are you based? When did the company start? Craft4Crafters Ltd, based in Bristol, has proudly organised premier textile and craft supply exhibitions for over 35 years. Our events are carefully curated to showcase a diverse range of retailers and engaging attractions, inspiring creativity in all attendees. We’re dedicated to delivering exceptional value - whether you’re a visitor seeking a fulfilling experience or a trader looking for a successful business opportunity. We take pride in the loyalty of our clients, many of whom have been with us for years, reflecting the strong relationships and trust we’ve built over time. How has the company evolved? Established in 2001, we’ve expanded over the past two decades from a haven for hobby and papercrafts to a dynamic forum for a wide range of textile disciplines - including quilting, sewing, knitting, fashion, embroidery, and a multitude of needlecrafts. What shows do you promote? Over the years, we’ve organised shows across the UK, but our recent focus has been on the South West, with events at Westpoint Arena in Exeter and the Royal Bath & West Showground, located between Bath and Bristol. Who are your shows aimed at? The Craft4Crafters and Stitching 4 All shows are aimed at a broad audience, including: Craft enthusiasts – Hobbyists and individuals passionate about crafting, from beginners to experienced crafters, looking to explore new techniques, materials, and ideas. Retailers and traders – Businesses in the textile and craft supply industries seeking to showcase their products, gain exposure, and connect with new and existing customers. Artists and designers – Individuals interested in discovering one-of-a-kind materials or gaining inspiration for their creative projects. Workshop participants – Those looking to learn new crafting skills or improve their expertise through hands-on workshops and demonstrations. Families and general visitors – Anyone interested in experiencing the vibrant and interactive atmosphere, finding inspiration for DIY projects, or simply enjoying a creative day out. What makes your shows different to other consumer shows? What makes our Craft4Crafters and Stitching 4 All shows stand out against other like shows in the UK is the combination of a diverse range of exhibitors and engaging experiences. Our events are known for featuring a carefully selected mix of high-quality retailers from across the country, offering craft supplies, textiles, and equipment that visitors often can’t find elsewhere. In addition to the wide array of products, our shows are designed to be highly interactive, with hands-on workshops and live demonstrations led by experts. This focus on learning and participation makes the events not only enjoyable but also educational, allowing attendees to leave with new skills and techniques they can apply to their own creative projects. The atmosphere at our shows is another aspect that sets us apart. We take pride in creating an environment that inspires creativity, with stunning displays and carefully curated attractions that immerse visitors in a world of artistic possibilities. This is complemented by the strong sense of community we’ve fostered over the years, with many of our clients returning year after year. The
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